Rwanda was originally inhabited by the pygmies who were predominantly hunters and food gatherers; ancestral to present day Batwa people who comprise of only 0.25% of the national population presently.

The next inhabitants were the agricultural and pastoralist immigrants from the west. It is alleged that before the 15th century a ruler called Gihanga forged a centralized Rwanda state with similar roots to the Bunyoro and Buganda empires in the neighboring country of Uganda.

The precursors of the modern-day Tutsi and Hutu were a cattle owning nobility and agriculturalists respectively. The well established and powerful state was able to protest earlier attempts at the advent of European imperialism.

However, after the 1885, Berlin conference, Rwanda became a German colony.
Rwanda was later mandated to Belgium in the 1918 resulting into the implementation of indirect rule that actually triggered off to the acute divisions between the Tutsi and Hutu; a practice that has persisted up to date.

It should be noted that traditional music and dance is a vital component of the Rwanda people. Natives have a variety of music and dance associated with acts and performance that demonstrates epics commemorating bravery, harmony and humorous lyrics to hunting root. Musical instruments accompanying traditional songs include; a harp-like instrument with eight (8) strings and the Lilunga whereas eminent celebratory dances are backed by a drum; , Orchestra; comprising of seven (&) to nine (9) members who produce a hypnotic and thrilling sounds of organized rhythms.

The most popular traditional dance troupe is the “Intore Dance troupe.” The word intore means the chosen one’s, it was established centuries ago and once performed for the Royal court; currently their memorable performance can be arranged upon a short notice through the National museum at Butale. The music of Rwanda is also soothing, so don’t miss this activity.

Crafted handicrafts also contribute to richness of the country’s culture.